I Am, Therefore I Think: A Historical Introduction to Philosophy

I Am, Therefore I Think:

A Historical Introduction to Philosophy

By

Although the word ‘philosophy’ etymologically means love of wisdom, this is not its only meaning, though it may be its most important one. Philosophy also encompasses rational inquiry and argumentation in general, and is not restricted to any particular subject matter. The word “philosophy” may thus be defined, more broadly, as careful, sustained, critical thought about anything you could possibly think of. It is our conviction that this book will vindicate this definition. In what follows you will encounter a wide range of the ideas and arguments of some of the world’s greatest philosophers. In keeping with the spirit of our definition of philosophy, you will not only learn what these ideas and arguments are, but also develop the ability to critically evaluate them based on the support given for their assumptions and the quality of their internal logic. We write this book with the hope that when you finish it you will be both better informed about philosophy and better equipped to practice it.